Scottsdale's Zoning Ordinance establishes maximum lot coverage ratios that vary by zoning district. In the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Overlay (ESLO), lot coverage is further restricted to preserve the desert environment. Typical residential districts allow 35-45% lot coverage, while ESLO areas may limit development to as little as 15-35% of the lot.
Scottsdale's Zoning Ordinance Article V (District Regulations) establishes lot coverage limits for each zoning district. Standard single-family residential districts (R1-7 through R1-35) typically allow 35-45% lot coverage for buildings and impervious surfaces. The Environmentally Sensitive Lands Overlay (ESLO) imposes stricter limits based on terrain category: Desert Hillside areas may be limited to 15-25% disturbance, while Desert Rural areas allow up to 35%. Lot coverage includes all buildings, accessory structures, driveways, patios, and other impervious surfaces. In the McDowell Sonoran Preserve transition areas, lot coverage restrictions are among the strictest in the city. Multi-family and commercial zones have different lot coverage standards specified in their respective district regulations.
Exceeding lot coverage limits may result in denial of building permits, required removal of excess improvements, and code enforcement action.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle lot coverage limits.
See how Scottsdale's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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